Classico ends the same way it begins at the Dragao

In a tense O Classico at Estadio do Dragao, Benfica and FC Porto battled to a goalless draw on the eve of the international break, with Porto's seven game league winning streak being halted by their former manager Jose Mourinho.

Benfica delivered a defensive masterclass that frustrated Porto but left a lot to be desired in a game that lacked much flair even though it was a highly intense affair that saw eight yellow cards issued amid heated exchanges between the players. 

The Porto faithful pelted the field with objects, many aimed at former club manager Mourinho, while they branded signs in the stands showing their disdain with his choice to join their rivals.

Porto held possession for the majority of the game but managed only two shots on target, doubling Benfica's one.

The first half was sluggish and foul-ridden, with no shots on goal until Georgiy Sudakov's 30th minute strike was palmed away by Diogo Costa. While Porto's Rodrigo Mora almost stole all three points in the second half, when his stoppage time curl rattled the crossbar. 

Porto remains in top spot after eight weeks of action, four points ahead of third place Benfica who have yet to find their groove under Mourinho's guidance. Benfica will return to action on the 17th of the month when they enter the 3rd round of the Taca de Portugal against Chaves.

Does Benzema's European dream involve a potential reunion at Benfica?

Karim Benzema, the French striker who dazzled at Real Madrid for over a decade, is reportedly eyeing a return to European football and departing a stint in Saudi Arabia with Al-Ittihad. Since joining the Saudi Pro League in 2023, Benzema has scored impressively but faced challenges, including reported dissatisfaction with the league's level.

His contract runs until June 2026, but sources indicate he has no intention of extending it, paving the way for a possible free transfer next summer or even a January exit if negotiations align. Enter Benfica, the Portuguese giants now led by Jose Mourinho, Benzema's former coach at Real Madrid from 2010 to 2013. 

The pair enjoyed success together, with Benzema crediting Mourinho for elevating his game. Rumors suggest Mourinho is keen on reuniting with the 2022 Ballon d'Or winner to bolster Benfica's attack, which has shown vulnerabilities throughout this campaign.

Benfica's interest stems from needing a proven goalscorer for their Portuguese League title push and Champions League aspirations. However, challenges abound. At 37, Benzema's age and hefty €100 million annual salary at Al-Ittihad pose financial hurdles for Benfica, who aren't among Europe's richest clubs. 

Mourinho has publicly downplayed the speculation, stating Benzema is "settled" in Saudi, but insider reports hint at interest behind the scenes. Benfica's chances? Moderate at best of acquiring Benzema unless he prioritizes European competition over money, only time will answer that question.

Benfica suffer London letdown and look to bounce back against FC Porto

Benfica fans are still reeling from a gut-wrenching 1-0 defeat to Chelsea in the Champions League at Stamford Bridge yesterday. What should have been a triumphant return for manager Jose Mourinho to his old stomping grounds turned into a disappointment, courtesy of an unfortunate own goal by Richard Rios in the first half.

Despite maintaining strong possession numbers and creating several chances, the Eagles couldn't find the net, leaving them with zero points from their first two group stage matches of the competition. The performance was scrappy at best as Chelsea barely threatened, yet Benfica's finishing woes and defensive lapse proved costly on the night.

Mourinho, ever the tactician, will be frustrated; his side looked organized but lacked the killer instinct. This loss piles pressure on their European campaign, especially with tougher fixtures on the horizon. 

Questions are swirling about the squad's depth and whether summer signings have gelled enough to compete at this level. But there will be no time to dwell as Benfica turns their focus to domestic matters with a blockbuster Portuguese League clash against arch-rivals FC Porto on Sunday at Estadio do Dragao.

A win here could reignite Benfica's title charge and boost morale after the Chelsea setback. Expect a high intensity game with Porto's attacking flair versus Benfica's resilient defense. If Benfica channels their frustration into focus, they could snatch some vital points away from the league leaders, so fans should buckle up as this weekend's derby might just define their season.